The Link Between Diabetes and Your Eyes: Why Eye Health Matters
Understanding the Connection Between Diabetes and Eye Health
Did you know that diabetes is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults? While most people associate diabetes with blood sugar control, few realize its serious impact on the eyes. From cataracts and diabetic retinopathy to glaucoma, diabetes can significantly affect your vision over time.
At Eye Consultants of North Dakota, we help patients across Fargo, Moorhead and surrounding communities protect their sight through proactive eye care and education. November—Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month—is the perfect time to understand how diabetes impacts your eyes and what steps you can take to protect your vision.
How Does Diabetes Affect Your Eyes?
Diabetes affects your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, which can damage small blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes. Over time, this can lead to several eye complications:
- Cataracts – People with diabetes are 60% more likely to develop cataracts and at a younger age. High blood sugar can cause the eye’s lens to swell and cloud, leading to blurry or hazy vision.
- Diabetic Retinopathy – This condition occurs when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. If untreated, it can cause bleeding, retinal detachment, and even blindness.
- Glaucoma – Diabetes doubles your risk of developing glaucoma, which damages the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure.
- Macular Edema – Fluid buildup in the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp vision) can distort your central vision.
Cataracts and Diabetes: What You Need to Know
Cataracts cause the natural lens of your eye to become cloudy, leading to symptoms like:
- Blurred or dim vision
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Colors appearing faded or yellowish
In patients with diabetes, cataracts can progress more rapidly due to changes in the eye’s glucose metabolism. When sugar levels remain high, excess glucose in the lens converts to sorbitol, which can cause swelling and clouding.
Can Cataracts Be Treated If You Have Diabetes?
Yes! Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures available today. At Eye Consultants of North Dakota, our experienced ophthalmologists use advanced surgical techniques to restore clear vision—helping patients enjoy sharper focus and better quality of life.
Pro Tip: Maintaining stable blood sugar before and after cataract surgery is key to faster recovery and optimal results.
5 Common Questions About Diabetes and Eye Health
How to Protect Your Eyes If You Have Diabetes
Maintaining good eye health starts with daily care and regular checkups. Here’s how you can protect your sight:
- Monitor your blood sugar daily
- Schedule yearly eye exams with a trusted eye doctor in North Dakota
- Manage blood pressure and cholesterol
- Avoid smoking, which worsens eye disease
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors
Why Early Detection Matters
The earlier eye complications are detected, the more treatment options you’ll have. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy and cataracts can progress silently—without noticeable symptoms—until significant damage has occurred.